Leaf, Brush Dumping Fees Modified

AVON — Bowing to public pressure, the town council is amending its plan to start charging residents for disposal of their leaves, brush and grass clippings.

The new charge, which was part of a package of other landfill fee increases, prompted scores of residents to call town hall and individual council members over the past few weeks.

While many callers said they understood the need for an increase in landfill permit fees, they were distressed by the new charge to dump leaves, brush and grass clippings, some council members said.

That fee will range from $10 to $25, depending on the amount being discarded.

As a compromise, the town council voted unanimously to suspend the fees from Oct. 1 to June 1 each year, the period in which homeowners clean up many dead leaves, broken branches and storm damage.

``If they're coming in with big loads in the summer, they're probably clearing land [for development] and then they'd pay the fee,'' said town council Chairman Richard Hines.

Councilwoman Diane Hornaday said several people told her they had no alternative except to take their leaves and brush to the town facilities, and that people with smaller cars worried about being charged extra for multiple trips.

``They just feel that it's kind of a lot,'' she said.

The town is increasing its landfill rates starting July 1, partly because of uncertainty over what rates the Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority will set for Avon and other towns it serves.

Also, Avon's bulky waste site is filling up quickly, and the town is being charged higher prices for the removal of paints, oils and similar materials.

The changes include:

An increase in the annual resident landfill permit from $75 to $85, and an increase in the annual permit for seniors from $45 to $50.

A boost in the one-day permit from $5 to $25, and in the business permit from $100 to $500.

Increases in the fees for disposal of construction materials, paint, bulky waste such as household items, appliances and tires, and similar items.

Town council members said although the permit fee increases must occur, they hope taxpayers will benefit from the suspension of the brush-dumping fee from Oct. 1 to June 1 each year.